Join walk leader Simon on this beautiful walk across the countryside whilst learning about the history, flora and fauna as you go! Leaving Glynde railway station, we will cross the A27 and head straight up to the top of the Downs at Beddingham Hill. Heading east along the summit there will be magnificent panoramas all around particularly from the highest peak on our route at Firle Beacon (217 metres). A little farther east the path passes through quite a dense area of ancient tumuli and then descends into Alfriston which will be the lunch stop. In the afternoon we will cross the River Cuckmere and head back up on to the downland summit using part of the old coach road that winds its way above the Long Man of Wilmington. The path later heads down through open woodland before arriving at Jevington Parish Church. To the east of Jevington village we again climb towards the summit track above Willingdon and Eastbourne. The final leg runs along the top edge of the woodland that has been badly affected by ash dieback disease but which is now naturally regenerating. The walk ends at the Eastbourne Downs Golf Club adjacent to the A259 East Dean Road from where regular buses head towards Eastbourne town centre and west to Brighton.
Approximate distance: 14 miles
Level of difficulty: Moderate/challenging (It will be a fairly challenging walk on unsurfaced tracks and paths and with long inclines to reach high points along the route. Except at Alfriston and Jevington the route is high up and exposed to the elements).
Start time: 10am (as close to 10am as trains permit)
Approximate finish time: 4pm
Exact meeting point: Glynde railway station (TQ 45799 08668)
Public transport to/from meeting point: Trains regularly run to Glynde station from Eastbourne and Brighton. At the Eastbourne end of the walk buses head towards Eastbourne town centre and the opposite direction towards Brighton every 15 to 20 minutes.
Walkers should bring drinks with them. At lunch time there is the option of purchasing food in Alfriston, the village shop is normally very good and there are tearooms, or alternatively bring a picnic. There may not be time for a full pub grub. At the end of the route the Eastbourne Downs Golf Club serves refreshments to non-members but if business has been quiet they can sometimes close early. Eastbourne town centre of course has lots of eateries. Toilet facilities can be found in Alfriston and at the end.
Please note this walk is not wheelchair friendly.
No dogs allowed due to lambing season and the likelihood of encountering livestock.